The term bar refers to attorneys collectively as a group. This term derives from the actual physical bar or railing in the courtroom that separates the area reserved for lawyers, judges, and court officials from the general spectator area. In order to become an Illinois Bar Attorney, prospective lawyers must complete an accredited education program, pass the Illinois bar examination, fulfill character and fitness requirements and complete all required applications.
The Bar Exam
All Illinois Bar Attorneys completed the bar exam, a rigorous exam that tests prospective attorneys’ knowledge of the law. Each state has its own version of the exam. In Illinois attorneys take three portions of the test over multiple days. Illinois Attorneys complete one portion specific to Illinois, the Multistate Bar Examination and the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination. This challenging exam tests all areas of the law and ensures that Illinois Bar Attorneys are qualified and knowledgeable.
Continuing Legal Education (CLE)
Illinois lawyers do not complete all education requirements once they complete the bar examination. Lawyers must continue to learn about the law and are required by the Illinois bar to obtain continuing legal education (CLE) credits to keep their license current. Courses and workshops that qualify as CLE credits keep Illinois Attorneys up to date about changes in the law and broaden their knowledge about current Illinois laws.
Experienced Illinois Attorney
Most Illinois Attorneys specialize in different areas of the law. Since Illinois law is complex, they usually focus on a few related areas and learn about those in depth. Through years of experience dealing with legal matters, attorneys gain in depth insight into the law. Experience is a powerful way to learn about the law and can build lasting expertise.
Bar Associations
Many areas form bar associations that attorneys may join. These associations are voluntary and provide benefits to attorneys that join. The purpose of many bar associations is to assist lawyers and promote improvements in the administration of justice. They serve as a way for attorneys to network, obtain CLE credits and be a part of a community of attorneys.
Illinois Bar Attorney Versus Online Legal Documents
Some people wonder whether they really need to hire an Illinois attorney or if they can get by representing themselves or using generic online legal documents. Online programs are typically basic and generic. They don’t deal with intricacies of the law and are basically as good as your knowledge of the law. If you don’t know details of the law, you may not know the correct forms to create and may miss out on opportunities. Not only are Illinois Bar Attorneys highly qualified and knowledgeable of the intricacies of the law, they have vast experience dealing with different types of cases. An Illinois Attorney will know which legal defenses have worked in the past and which methods are best to get the desired result. Don’t go to a fast food restaurant hoping to get a five star steak dinner. If you want quality legal representation, always use a qualified Illinois bar attorney.
Illinois Attorney Search
Many websites provide links to a variety of Illinois attorneys. Finding a qualified attorney that you can trust may seem overwhelming. Not only do you want to find a licensed Illinois attorney, but you also want to find one that you feel comfortable working with. When doing an Illinois Bar Attorney search, look for an attorney with experience in the appropriate legal field. If you need help with a criminal matter, search for an Illinois attorney with expertise in criminal defense. Peruse their website and get a feel for the attorney. Always meet with the attorney and ask lots of questions.
Contact an Experienced Illinois Bar Attorney
Michael P. Chomiak is an accomplished Illinois Bar Attorney. He has extensive experience dealing with all types of criminal defense cases. His experience as a Cook County State’s Attorney gives him knowledge of both sides of every criminal matter and helps him better defend his clients. Over the past 11 years he has vigorously defended his clients in every area of criminal law. When you need help with a criminal matter, contact Illinois Attorney Michael P. Chomiak, Chicago criminal defense attorney, to learn the best way to defend your case.
